In 2025, five years post-COVID, consumers aren’t just back—they’re evolved. Our latest research reveals a sharp bifurcation in behavior: a surge in both value-driven and premium-focused spending, while the mid-market fades. From offline retail’s resurgence to hybrid work reshaping office visits, today’s consumer is more intentional, more mobile, and more selective than ever before. This isn’t just a shift—it’s a new era of decision-making.
Dive into the key trends reshaping retail, dining, entertainment, and work habits to learn how your brand can thrive in this transformed landscape.
The New Consumer is Here: Smarter, Selective & Spending Differently
Consumer Behavior Redefined: Retail, Dining & Entertainment in 2025
Offline Retail & Dining are Not Just Back—They're Leading
Despite the rise of e-commerce and delivery apps, consumers are returning to stores and restaurants in droves—exceeding pre-COVID visit levels. What’s driving the foot traffic? A desire for product discovery, brand experiences, and value perception. Retail traffic is even outpacing dining, driven by consumers making multiple stops for the best match in quality, price, or uniqueness. It’s no longer about convenience—it’s about perceived worth.
Entertainment is Evolving: Only High-Impact Experiences Win in 2025
Today’s consumers are more discerning with their time and money. Museum visits remain 10.9% below pre-COVID levels, signaling a decline in interest for traditional, one-dimensional experiences. Meanwhile, eatertainment venues are outperforming, offering multi-value environments that blend food, fun, and social engagement.
At the same time, movie theaters are still far below 2019 foot traffic, but strong YoY gains show audiences will return—if the content truly delivers. The message is clear: in 2025, experiences must feel worth it to drive foot traffic and loyalty.
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